Potential allelopathic effects of Schinus terebinthifolius on selected Florida native plants
In Florida (US), Schinus terebinthifolius (Anacardiaceae) is classified as a “category I” invasive species, meaning that it is invading and disrupting natural communities. Invaded sites include disturbed areas, mangroves and mature forests. It covers more than 280 000 ha in Florida. A laboratory study demonstrated that aqueous extracts of S. terebinthifolius negatively affected growth of two native plants commonly found in south Florida’s natural areas, Bromus alba (Poaceae) and Rivina humilis (Phytolaccaceae). Both germination and biomass of B. alba decreased, while only biomass of R. humilis was reduced.
More information at: http://www.hear.org/pier/species/schinus_terebinthifolius.htm, http://www.issg.org/database/species/management_info.asp?si=22&fr=1&sts=,
Sources
Morgan EC, Overholt WA (2005) Potential allelopathic effects of Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi, Anacardiaceae) aqueous extract on germination and growth of selected Florida native plants. Journal of the Torrey Botanical Society 132(1), 2005, 11-15.